Naseem Shah ruled out of PSL's Abu Dhabi leg after bio-security breach

Shah was due to take a charter flight to the UAE from Lahore but was placed in isolation upon his arrival after failing to produce a negative PCR test dated within 48 hours of May 24

Latest PSL news

Quetta Gladiators will be without Naseem Shah for the Abu Dhabi leg of the Pakistan Super League after the young fast bowler breached Covid-safe protocols.

Shah was due to take a charter flight to the UAE from Lahore but was placed in isolation upon his arrival at the competition's hotel after failing to produce a negative PCR test dated within 48 hours of May 24.

The seamer's test result was date May 18.

PSL organisers subsequently discussed the situation with Quetta officials before confirming that Shah would not be allowed to travel on to Abu Dhabi, where the tournament is due to resume next month.

Commercial director Babar Hamid stressed that the decision was taken reluctantly but in the best interests of preserving the bio-security of a competition which was suspended in March after several protocol breaches.

^{Naseem Shah is out of the PSL}

Hamid said: “The PCB doesn’t take any pride in releasing a young fast bowler from its marquee event but if we will ignore this breach, then we will potentially put at risk the entire event. We appreciate Quetta Gladiators for accepting this decision as it confirms we are all aligned to strictly following and implementing the protocols.

“This decision will also send out a loud and clear message to all involved in the remaining matches that the PCB will not compromise on any violations and will expel the player or player support personnel irrespective of his stature and standing in the game if they are found to be flouting the prescribed protocols or regulations.

“All participating in the tournament must understand that these protocols have been put in place for the health and safety of all involved as well for the integrity and credibility of the event and the PCB. As such, the onus is on them to ensure these are followed in its true letter and spirit and without exception.”